Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine recalled on the DVD commentary that this show had huge problems in rehearsals, partly because Fosca was so unlikeable and partly because elements that were familiar to 19th century audiences appeared bizarre to 20th century audiences. Donna Murphy reminded the other commentators that at one preview performance, when Fosca collapsed, the audience applauded.
Marin Mazzie was really completely naked during the opening scene. Her microphone was in her wig. She had to keep herself covered by the sheet for the filming, which she did not have to do for the Broadway performances.
Tom Aldredge was nominated for the 1994 Tony Award (New York City) for Supporting or Features Actor in a Musical for "Passion" and recreated his role in this filmed production.
Jere Shea was nominated for the 1994 Tony Award (New York City) for Actor in a Musical for "Passion" and recreated his role in this production.
The original Broadway production of "Passion" opened at the Plymouth Theater in New York on May 9, 1984, ran for 280 performances and won the 1994 Tony Awards for the Best Musical, Book and Score. Donna Murphy, Jere Shea, Marin Mazzie, Gregg Edelman, Tom Aldredge, Linda Balgord, William Parry, Francis Ruivivar and Marcus Olson recreated their roles in the filmed production. Donna Murphy won a 1994 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, Jere Shea was nominated for a 1994 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical, Marin Mazzie was nominated for a 1994 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical and Tom Aldredge was nominated for a 1994 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.